“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you,” Ephesians 4:32 ESV. I Corinthians 13:4 ranks patience and kindness right at the top of the “Love List”. Though past disappointments may still sting within, there is no loss in offering authentic kindness to others, even to those who have hurt us. When kindness is practiced without ulterior motives, we touch for a moment the glory and nature of God. I John 4:8 proclaims: “God is love.” Since kindness is one of the principal characteristics of love, offering kindness is one of the highest examples of genuine godliness. Even if our kindness is rejected by those to whom it is offered it benefits the giver and invites the blessing of the Almighty. Father, You are love and You are kind beyond description. Let Your kindness flow through me that I may be more like You. Make me Your instrument of love to others.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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